ATV Riding Laws – Mississippi

The use of off-road vehicles is regulated in Mississippi State by the provisions of Title 63, Chapter 31 of the Mississippi statutes. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (DWFP) is responsible for enforcing the law, rules, and regulations of ATV riding within the state.

Licensing and Training

Under the law, no ATV may be driven on public property unless the person has a valid driver’s license or has a certificate following the successful completion of an off-road vehicle safety course. ATV training may be conducted by the Cooperative Extension Service or any training facility approved by the Department of Public Safety.

General Operating Regulations

Riding ATVs on public roadways or highways is prohibited in Mississippi. The minimum age for ATV riders is 6 years old. All ATV users are required to carry proof of identity and a valid pass for the activity.

All users of off-road vehicles are required to file a Waiver Consent of liability with the DWFP before they are permitted to ride an ATV within any state park. The waiver is valid for one year.

Minors under the age of 21 who are riding unaccompanied must file a Waiver Consent signed by a parent or guardian. Adults accompanying minor riders must also sign an acknowledgment of responsibility.

An ATV owner may not allow someone younger than 21 to ride an all-terrain vehicle that is in violation of state laws or State Park regulations and rules. Any person accompanying a minor rider will be held responsible for any damages caused by the vehicle. Both owner and rider of an ATV will be liable for injury to others or to wildlife in the park.

A helmet approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation must be worn by all ATV riders at all times. The carrying of passengers on an ATV is prohibited. Reckless driving and speeding are also prohibited. ATVs must keep to designated trails and travel on public roads is not allowed. ATVs may not be driven in wetlands or through streams and lakes. Riders must not drive in a manner that damages or disturbs the wildlife, land or vegetation.

Safety Rules

The DWFP limits the use of their parks for ATV riding from 08:00am to sunset. All vehicles must have fully functioning mufflers and spark arrestors. ATV riders are prohibited from riding in a way that would disturb other park guests.

Any accident involving an ATV must be reported to the Park Office within 24 hours. This is a legal responsibility which may incur penalties if not complied with.

Age Restrictions for Riding ATVs

Children younger than 6 years old are prohibited from riding the boundaries of any park under the jurisdiction of the DWFP. Other minors under the age of 21 must file a Waiver Consent form signed by a parent or guardian.